Stepping Into May
Rhododendron 'Klondyke' and Geranium maculatum May is already here and the garden suddenly explodes with growth. We spent the weekend watering (already?) because there hasn't been significant rainfall in a while. We don't have a sprinkler system so it is all manpower, dragging hoses and sprinklers. It takes two days - one for the back and one for the front - to water everything. It is possible to get it all in one day if we start really early. The rhododendrons are beginning now - 'Mandarin Lights' 'Jean Marie De Montague' 'Percy Wiseman' - beautiful but suffers from lacebug. I'm considering replacing it or maybe I will try and treat it. A favorite right now is the Chilean Potato Vine ( Solanum crispum 'Glasnevin'). This plant is hardier than you might imagine. Some sources list it as a "9", others an "8". It is going on its third year in our garden, having been moved once. It is sheltered somewhat by a fence but ...
Somehow I missed this, I know how I haven't been able to read the paper the last several days. He had a spectacular garden, and you're right it's hard to grow them that large here. I tried bring some of the larger varieties back from Auburn with me on my trips home. I think 2 are still living at the old house. I hope his garden is handed down to a garden lover. Too many beautiful gardens are turned into yards. Mary
ReplyDeleteSorry to hear about your friend Phillip. He obviously has a green thumb. What a sight his garden must be during the blooming season.
ReplyDeleteThis is spectacular and I always feel bad when I hear about the end of a marvelous gardening career. Also, it was nice to see photos of your garden on the Fine Gardening site... Larry
ReplyDeleteMary, I do hope that someone can take care of the garden. It would be terrible if it went to ruin.
ReplyDeleteThanks Lisa and Larry!
How sad he is gone, but it is rather inspiring that he started plants from small cuttings when he was older. Shows such a great attitude.
ReplyDeleteJan
Always Growing
Too bad he is gone. I'm really sorry to hear that Phillip. The garden is really lovely and fully bloomed!
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to hear of Mr. Perry's passing. He led our Master Gardener group through his beautiful garden several years ago, and it was such a treat learning from such a fascinating man. I will pass on this news to our group, as many will remember him.
ReplyDeleteThats a beautiful place with so many azaleas. Sorry to hear of the loss of this fine gardener.
ReplyDeleteLovely photo and lovely tribute.
ReplyDeleteHe sounds really inspiring. I do hope the garden continues - it's gorgeous.
ReplyDelete